Same sex couples must wait to tie the knot in Maine

PORTLAND, Maine (NEWS CENTER) - Unlike most laws in Maine, the same sex marriage measure does not have to be passed by the Legislature or signed by the Governor.

So when can same sex couples get married in Maine?

The Secretary of State's office has up to 20-days to certify the results of the election. The Governor then has up to 10-days to approve them. After that happens, there is a 30-day waiting period before the new law takes effect.

"I suspect that while there will be those who want to cement their relationship quickly, there will be a lot of others who will want to take their time and plan the wedding they've been dreaming about", said David Farmer of Mainers United for Marriage.

Also under the new law couples from here who already got married in other states where same sex marriage is legal will now be legally married in Maine.